Gerrard set for weekend off

Steven Gerrard is almost certain to be left out of Liverpool’s match at Fulham tomorrow, having also been rested at Portsmouth last weekend.

The Anfield skipper could join a host of absentees at Craven Cottage, with John Arne Riise, Steve Finnan, Jamie Carragher and Jose Reina expected to be rested again with the Champions League Final later this month.

Italian Under-21 goalkeeper Daniele Padelli could make his debut, with teenage Argentinian full-back Emiliano Insua – who made his debut at Fratton Park - getting another outing.

Provisional squad: Padelli, Arbeloa, Hyypia, Paletta, Insua, Gonzalez, Alonso, Sissoko, Zenden, Fowler, Bellamy, Reina, Crouch, Pennant, El Zhar, Hobbs, Anderson, Finnan.